Bond lodgement in Victoria
Key rules at a glance
| Portal | RTBA Online Services at rentalbonds.vic.gov.au — accepts both agents and private landlords (renters can also lodge)Source: rentalbonds.vic.gov.au |
|---|---|
| Deadline | Within 14 days of receiving the bond (public holidays are excluded)Source: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic) s.406 |
| Payment | Pay the bond to the RTBA by BPAY or EFT using the reference number the portal issuesSource: RTBA |
| Receipt | The RTBA emails both landlord and tenant a bond number, typically within 7 days of lodgementSource: RTBA |
How it works in Victoria
Victoria's process is: (1) register or log in to RTBA Online Services and start a new bond, entering the property, tenancy start date, and every renter and landlord on the lease; (2) the portal generates a BPAY/EFT reference — pay the bond amount to the RTBA using that reference; (3) each renter is emailed a confirmation link and asked to verify their details; (4) once every renter confirms, the RTBA issues a bond number to all parties. If you take the bond in cash, you have 14 days to lodge — either through RTBA Online Services (deposit the cash into your account first) or by completing a paper Bond Lodgement Form and posting it with a cheque to the RTBA. Holding a bond past 14 days is a strict-liability offence.
Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA)Frequently asked questions
How do I register for RTBA Online Services?▾
Go to rentalbonds.vic.gov.au and select 'Register as a rental provider'. You verify your email, provide your ABN or personal details, and can lodge bonds immediately after activation.
Can I lodge a Victorian bond by paper?▾
Yes. Complete the RTBA's Bond Lodgement Form, attach a bank cheque or money order for the full bond, and post it to the RTBA. The 14-day deadline still applies from the day you received the money.
What if a co-tenant will not verify their RTBA details?▾
The bond still counts as lodged once you have paid the RTBA and submitted the lodgement — but the bond number only issues after every renter verifies. Contact the RTBA if a co-tenant fails to verify within a fortnight.
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Last reviewed 9 June 2026
Figures reflect the 2025–26 financial year and tenancy laws in force as at mid-2026. State rules change often — always confirm the current figure with the linked authority before you rely on it.
This is general information for Australian landlords, not legal, financial, or tax advice. PropAlly is a software provider, not a law firm, accountant, or licensed adviser. Verify your obligations with the relevant state authority or a qualified professional.